Cedar Creek Fire

August

Late in the day on August 1, the fire was ignited by a lightning strike.^[9] It was first detected about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) west of Waldo Lake in the Willamette National Forest.^[10] Firefighters were slow to contain the fire, due to the rough and unsafe terrain surrounding the wildfire. The fire was estimated to be at around 5 acres on August 2, and was later estimated to be at 100 acres (40 ha) on early in the day on August 3, and a later estimate that day stated it was 500 acres (200 ha).^[11]

On August 3, the fire started moving more north and east and started burning in heavy timber and by August 4, it had grown to around 1,200 acres (490 ha), and smoke was predicted to affect the cities of Bend and Sisters, Oregon.^[10] An infrared reading on August 5 sized the fire at around 1,054 acres (427 ha).

On August 15, the fire grew to 4,422 acres with 0% containment. An area closure of all trailheads and dispersed camping North and West of Waldo Lake and Temporary Flight Restrictions were in effect.^[12]

On August 27, the fire grew to 7,632 acres with 0% containment. Area closures remained in effect North and West of Waldo Lake. Calm weather provided better opportunities for fire suppression. Firelines were continuing to be constructed using minimum impact suppressrion tactics (MIST) to reduce negative impacts on the ecosystem.^[13]

September

On September 25, the fire grew to 114,104 acres with 20% containment. 44 engines, 28 crews, 68 heavy equipment, and 9 helicopters were staffed for fire suppression.^[14]

October

On October 27, the fire grew to 127,283 acres with 60% containment. Due to temperatures dropping and humidity rising, fire progression reduced drastically. 4 engines, 2 crews, 1 helicopter, and 2 masticators were staffed for fire suppression. Closures had reduced on the Deschutes National Forest and Willamette National Forest. Air quality ranged from good to moderate within the forecasted area. Lane County evacuations had been lifted.^[15]